Smit clear to lead South Africa

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By Andy Colquhoun

CAPE TOWN (Reuters) - South African rugby bosses on Thursday suspended a decision to ban overseas-based players from appearing for the Springboks clearing the way for John Smit to lead the world champions in a one-off Test against Wales.

Smit, who plays for French side Clermont Auvergne, was named captain on Tuesday although three other members of the World Cup party who have since taken up European contracts -- Ashwin Willemse, Gary Botha and Butch James -- were not selected.

The match is due to take place in Cardiff on November 24.

The decision to suspend the ban was taken by the powerful council of provincial union presidents.

A statement said discussions would take place with the South African players’ association and other interested parties before a final decision was taken.

The meeting also confirmed the shortlist of four candidates to succeed Jake White as Springbok coach in the new year.

The contenders -- Allister Coetzee, Peter de Villiers, Chester Williams and Heyneke Meyer -- will be interviewed on Dec, 3 and 4, the statement said.

The decision dashed the hopes of Sharks coach Dick Muir who applied for the job this week after the deadline.

(Editing by Ken Ferris)

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